Using drones to monitor these areas might deter the use of such roadside devices by simply minimizing the number of targets available to them.
By contrast, we must also consider the theory of Just War, which asserts that any tactic used in the military setting must be cognizant of the demands imposed by this model. Where the use of the military drone is concerned, it is appropriate to make appropriate efforts to acknowledge and adhere to the principles of just war. In this context, the use of the Predator must be tempered by efforts to assure its fairness, its precision and its proper usage. Indeed, while the deterrence theory -- in its sometimes inevitable appeal to preemption -- would seem largely contrary to the theory of just war. However, if deterrence is executed properly so as to minimize the need for engagement, it may actually be a substantial benefit in abiding the standards for just war.
Research Approach:
With respect to actually engaging the subject on a research level, the hypothesis could be evaluated using either a quantitative or a qualitative method. As to the former, it would perhaps be most sensible to gather data on the use of roadside devices in Afghanistan in regions where drone flyovers are commonplace vs. their use in regions where drone flyovers are not as consistent. Such research would require cooperation and the sharing of information on the part of the U.S. military.
By...
For instance, a useful qualitative investigation might outline the key parameters of Just War and, consequently, survey military personnel and foreign policy experts on how the use of the Predator drone does or does not abide these parameters.
Article Review:
The article by Hahn (2012) is a useful meditation on these considerations. According to Hahn, "the New York Times reported that the White House has 'embraced a disputed method for counting civilian casualties' where 'all military-age males in a strike zone' are considered combatants' unless there is explicit intelligence posthumously proving them innocent." (Hahn, p. 1) as this article exposes, there is a tremendous latitude for quantitative evaluation of the policies under-riding the use of drones, and that this evaluation may demonstrate that higher enemy combatant casualties have occurred rather than actual deterrence.
Works Cited:
Bird, S.J. (2006). Research Ethics, Research Integrity and the Responsible Conduct of Research. Science and Engineering Ethics (12), 411-412.
Hahn, N.G. (2012). Time for a Just Drone Theory. Real Clear Politics.
Moore, W.H. (2001). Evaluating Theory in Political Science. Florida State University.
